The Dink Tank
Join host Ben Woodall on an exhilarating journey through the vibrant world of pickleball in the Cincinnati area. Each week, we'll explore the hidden gems and bustling hotspots where pickleball passion comes alive, from community recreation centers to premier indoor facilities.
Meet the characters who make our local pickleball scene special: the retired photojournalists who now coaches a rising pickleball star at the Countryside YMCA, the former basketball player who's revolutionizing defensive strategies at The Pickle Lodge, and the countless weekend warriors who've found their competitive spirit on the courts.
Featured segments include:
- Court Spotlight: Detailed reviews of local playing venues, including peak times, court conditions, and community vibes
- Coach's Corner: Training tips and strategy sessions with local instructors
- Tournament Talk: Coverage of upcoming events, player preparations, and post-game analysis
Whether you're a seasoned player looking to level up your game or a curious newcomer wanting to explore the fastest-growing sport in America, The Dink Tank offers an authentic look at the local pickleball scene!
The Dink Tank
Pro Pickleball Strategies and Training Secrets with Carolina Lopez Episode
In this episode of Dink Tank, chat with Carolina Lopez (via phone), a former professional tennis player turned pickleball pro. With a duper rating of 5.75, Carolina shares her remarkable journey from Argentina to becoming a tennis instructor at Quail Tennis Club in Dayton, Ohio, and now competing professionally in pickleball tournaments across the country.
Episode Highlights:
- Carolina's tennis career, starting at age 7 in Argentina and reaching a world ranking around 500
- Her transition to the United States and 22-year career as a tennis instructor
- How she discovered pickleball just three years ago and quickly rose to professional status
- Training strategies for balancing professional pickleball with her tennis coaching career
- Insights into tournament preparation and partnering strategies for mixed and women's doubles
- Carolina's favorite pickleball shots and techniques that transitioned well from tennis
- How the sport of pickleball is rapidly evolving with more power and speed
Carolina discusses her upcoming competition at the U.S. Open in Dayton, Florida, and shares her thoughts on the future of pickleball as more tennis players make the transition. She offers valuable tips for pickleball players of all levels, emphasizing the importance of drilling, consistency, and strategic gameplay.
Whether you're a tennis player considering pickleball, a recreational pickleball enthusiast, or a competitive player looking to improve your game, Carolina's insights provide a fascinating look into the professional pickleball world.
Connect With Us:
- Follow Carolina Lopez: https://www.instagram.com/firecracker_pickleball/
- Follow Dink Tank where ever you podcast!
- Support our sponsors: Cedar Bay Farm
Keywords:
pickleball, tennis pro, professional pickleball, pickleball strategy, pickleball tournaments, pickleball training, tennis to pickleball transition, US Open pickleball, Dayton Ohio pickleball, Moneyball tournaments